Due to the vacating and demolition of buildings on Fort Gillem and Fort McPherson, increased rodent activity may be experienced.

Rodents can transmit more than 35 diseases and some can be spread to humans directly through handling of rodents, coming in contact with rodent feces, urine or saliva, or through rodent bites.

Diseases carried by rodents can also be spread to humans indirectly through ticks, mites or fleas that have fed on an infected rodent.

The primary strategy for preventing human exposure to rodent diseases is effective rodent control in and around the home and workplace.

This is achieved by eliminating any food sources, sealing entries into homes and work areas and successfully trapping rodents in and around the home.

Eliminate possible rodent food sources by:

Aca,!AcKeeping food in thick plastic or metal containers with tight lids.

Aca,!AcCleaning up spilled food right away and washing dishes and cooking utensils soon after use.

Aca,!AcKeeping outside cooking areas and grills clean.

Aca,!AcAlways putting pet food away after use and not leaving pet food or water bowls out overnight.

Aca,!AcKeeping bird feeders away from the house and utilizing squirrel guards to limit access to the feeder by squirrels and other rodents.

Aca,!AcUsing a thick plastic or metal garbage can with a tight lid.

Aca,!AcKeeping compost bins as far away from the house as possible (100 feet or more is best).

Aca,!AcKeeping grains and animal feed in thick plastic or metal containers with tight lids. In the evening, uneaten animal feed should be returned to containers with lids.

Aca,!AcIf storing trash and food waste inside the home, do so in rodent-proof containers and frequently clean the containers with soap and water. Dispose of trash and garbage on a frequent and regular basis, and pick up or eliminate clutter.

Aca,!AcEliminate possible nesting sites outside the home. Elevate hay, woodpiles and garbage cans at least one foot off the ground.

Aca,!AcMove woodpiles far away (100 feet or more is best) from the house.

Aca,!AcGet rid of old trucks, cars and tires that mice and rats could use as homes.

Aca,!AcKeep grass cut short and shrubbery within 100 feet of the home well trimmed.

Mice can squeeze through a hole the size of a nickel and rats can squeeze through a hole the size of a half dollar.

Prevent rodents from entering the home by checking inside and outside the house for gaps or holes.

Fill small holes with steel wool. Put caulk around the steel wool to keep it in place. Use lath screens or lath metal, cement, hardware cloths or metal sheeting to fix large holes. These materials can be found at local hardware stores.

Fix gaps in trailer skirting and use flashing around the base of the house. If you do not remember to seal up entry holes in your home, rodents will continue to get inside. Outbuildings and garages should also be sealed to prevent the entrance of rodents. Remember:

Aca,!AcDo not attempt to trap or poison rodents yourself.

Aca,!AcEnsure food items are stored tightly in thick plastic containers until rodents have been removed.

Aca,!AcEmpty all trash daily to prevent rodent activity.

Aca,!AcEnsure trash bags are secured tightly and disposed of properly.

Aca,!AcWash hands thoroughly with soap and water after any contact with rodents or their feces.